Known as the lakes district. Named for its 12 largest glacially carved lakes. Six Volcanoes line the districts centre, it is also terminus for the railway and Continental portion of the Pan American Highway which stretches all the way to Alaska. The city has 130,000 people with a large population of Germans who colonized here in 1852. There is a quaint Bavarian look to the local homes. Chile has earthquakes every day apparently, but not too many are felt thank goodness.

After tendering ashore we braved a local bus to who new where, then we walked and walked. A lovely sunny day today but still a little cool. The downtown was very busy and it was interesting hearing the locals chattering away in Spanish. I've tried out my very basic Spanish at times and done quite well. Market Stalls line the streets with endless knitted crafts, jumpers and ponchos. While we were in the City Centre, there was a Demonstration March going on

. Huge crowds singing and chanting for the right to free education. Afterwards we were having a snack in a Cafe, and the Riot Police turned up with water cannons and their body armour. Some students were hurling rocks at the police. A bit of excitement!!

Back on board now after a long, good day. A welcome cuppa and biscuit will be nice.Tonight the crew are putting on an evening with free drinks and a surprise dinner. A nice little gesture. Apparently because we didn't get to Ushuaia and the Horn. They have also given every passenger a credit to their account for money saved, not having to pay the taxes and landing fees in these ports.